what is the prospect of getting into a respectable MBA program like UF with a BIG 3 Degree? Obviously a solid GMAT and GPA, but my extracurricular activities are severely lacking. Where can I go to get some extracurricular activities to spice up my resume?
If you're an adult student who's already employed, I don't think a lack of extracurricular activities is going to hurt you. As you mentioned, your GMAT and GPA are going to factor more than anything, and having an undergrad degree is a business-related subject not only helps but will save you from taking leveling courses. I had no extracurricular activities (unless you count working 40+ hours per week) in college, and I've never been rejected by any graduate program to which I've applied.
Join professional associations, volunteer with local charities or other organizations whether professional or social services in nature, coach a sports team, volunteer as a mentor with a young entrepreneurs chapter, join the PTA at your child's school, etc.
The big 3 degree will not count against you, if that is what you are wondering. You should be fine with a solid GMAT and GPA. Volunteering is always a good option if you are looking for more extracurricular activities.
What do you like to do? Find something like Big Brothers / Big Sisters, The Humane Society, or American Cancer Society to volunteer with.
For most of the part time and DL programs you just need to jump through the application hoops to be accepted. For the top programs a decent GMAT score should help. According to Businessweek the acceptance rate at UF is close to 80% with an average GMAT of 600. So, I would recommend concentrating on rocking the GMAT, getting some quality recommendations and jumping through the other application hoops.
Agreed. When I applied to Kelley I had no "extracurricular" activities, and tested out entirely for my Excelsior degree. What ultimately mattered was a 700 GMAT, a 4.0 GPA and solid work experience. FYI - I used 800score.com's service (which is around $40) and went through the 5 sample exams that used the adaptive scoring similar to the real GMAT. My sample scores were similar to the actual GMAT so at least in my case it was good piece of mind. There is a sample section that you can download for free to try out. You may want to consider shelling out the $40, trying a couple of sample exams and see where you sit. If you're above 600 then you are in good shape for UF's admission criteria (all other factors being at or above what they look for). If you're below then you know you need to do some work prior to applying. Cheers, Mark
Thanks, you guys are helpful. Unfortunately, I only have 3 years pre-baccalaureate work experience and most AACSB schools require post degree work experience. Guess I hit a wall. If anyone knows how I can get into a good AACSB or AMBA program with lacking post degree qualifications let me know! Thanks again.
I had very little post-bachelor's experience as I received my undergrad in early 2005 and applied in May 2005 to my MBA program (which is AACSB). I did, however, have over 10 years of pre-bachelor's experience including management. I think that if you have a great GMAT score and GPA you still have a very good shot, unless those 3 years work experience show little value to a MBA admissions committee (e.g. flipping burgers). Do you have any entrepreneurial skills? Any supervisory or management experience at all? These will all factor into your application essay which can work in your favor. What was your undergrad degree in? Do you need any leveling courses? Take the GMAT first before worrying about the rest. If you score well above the target school's median then I would apply. Schools are always looking to "fluff up" their average GMAT score and when combined with a solid GPA you would be a good catch for them.
CSUDH does not specifically say what work experience is required: Admission to the MBA Online Program is selective. The Admissions Committee reviews the entire application package weighing prior academic performance, previous work experience, GMAT score, and other professional and intellectual pursuits. The CSUDH School of Business and Public Administration is fully accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs. http://mbaonline.csudh.edu/index.htm Prerequisite courses must be satisfied.
Rather than focus on extra curricular activities, why not buff your hardcore knowledge and skills. Earn a certificate. Maybe something like this: http://www.umassonline.net/degrees/CertFoundationsBusiness.html Not only will it indicate that you're for real, the credits could transer toward your degree.
UF only asks for 2 years professional experience - it does not say post-BA. I think the average age is only 27 for that program. Just kick but on the GMAT and put together a strong application. Spend time on the essays and line up strong recommendations. Remember: 80% acceptance rate and 600 ave GMAT...surely the 20% were shaky and had low GMATs and or other severe issues. You'll be fine, unless you are trying to get into a full-time traditional program at a top 30 or so program (I have been assuming you are talking about online). FYI, beware of assuming certain credits will transfer in to your program of choice. For example, UF and ASU do not take ANY transfer credit.
